The Centrelink thing

TL;DR, Centrelink implemented an automated debt recovery system which incorrectly applies earnings against welfare payments, and, right before Christmas, started inundating past and present Centrelink recipients with demands for payment. With the call centre understaffed and the online system not working, the Centrelink Twitter account has started directing distressed “customers” to Lifeline — which is staffed by volunteers and has had its own funding cut.

Exciting fact: last year, the ALP voted with the Liberals to extend the period from which “debts” can be recovered, so I’m expecting my letter any day now. But I’m middle class and — maybe more importantly — know lawyers, so I feel like I can handle it.

Grassroots Business

They just hit their original goal but NJP using the extra to fund a second junior lawyer to fight even harder for women who need to be brought to Australia for medical assistance and are stuck on Nauru and denied treatment by our awful government.